Apple Salad

While we love quick and simple salads, there are a few ingredients that can really take them up a notch. Sweet fruit, a sharp cheese, crunchy nuts and seeds and a fresh dressing are all salad stars in our book, and that's why we combined them all in this easy Apple Salad. Sweet, tangy and fresh, this simple but satisfying side is fancy enough to be the perfect holiday salad for your Christmas celebration, and easy enough to be a staple weeknight dinner side. Plus, the homemade candied pecans make enough to snack on long after the salad has been devoured. 😎

Read on for our top tips on making this staple salad: 

Can I add anything else?

Of course! While we love this recipe for the tangy blue cheese, bittersweet cranberries and  fresh shallot vinaigrette, this salad is endlessly customizable. Add some grapes and make a pseudo-Waldorf salad. Toss in some croutons or if you want a healthier crunch, add some simple roasted chickpeas. Not a fan of blue cheese? Try feta or goat cheese instead! Whatever you do, don't skip on the apples or leafy greens!

What are the best apples to use?

We love Fuji, Gala and Honeycrisp in our apple salads because of their sweetness and crisp texture—they give the perfect contrasting crunch to your leafy greens. 

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Save yourself some time and make the candied pecans and dressing ahead of time. The candied pecans can be made and stored in an airtight container up to 1 week ahead of time, while the dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 

Love apple salads but hungry for another leafy green? Try our Kale Salad with Apples and Toasted Almonds! 

If you tried making this salad, let us know how it went in the comments below!